Shannon tree-planting celebration

A magnolia tree and flowers were planted in the garden

A tree has been planted outside the home of Shannon Matthews in Dewsbury to celebrate the schoolgirl being found.

The nine-year-old's mother Karen Matthews, 32, planted the magnolia tree in the front garden of the family home in Moorside Road on Wednesday.

Reverend Kathy Robertson of, Dewsbury Team Parish, who led the planting, said it would act as a "thanksgiving" for Shannon's return for years to come.

Shannon went missing three weeks ago. Michael Donovan is accused of kidnap.

She's safe and well - that's all that matters Karen Matthews, Shannon's mother

The 39-year-old faces two charges of abduction and kidnap after the schoolgirl disappeared after a school swimming trip.

Police found Shannon at a house in Batley Carr a mile from her home 24 days later.

Shannon Matthews was missing for three weeks

After the tree planting Mrs Matthews said: "Thank you to everyone in the community for everything they have done in the last four weeks.

"We are grateful to all the people around the country for all the time and effort they have put in to find her.

"She's safe and well - that's all that matters."

Local school children planted smaller flowers on the lawn and released multi-coloured balloons.

Shannon is in the care of Kirklees Family Services and is not expected to return home for some time.